After a car accident, your insurance company might point you to one of their “preferred” repair shops. Sometimes they even make it sound like you have to use them. But here’s the truth: in most cases, you have the right to choose where your car gets fixed. The catch? Choosing the wrong path could affect your claim, your repair quality, and even your wallet. Let’s break it down.

After a car accident, one phrase comes up more than any other: “Who was at fault?” But what does “at-fault” really mean? It’s more than just pointing fingers — it determines whose insurance pays, how much compensation is available, and in some cases, whether you can even file a lawsuit. Understanding how fault works can make or break your accident claim.

After a car accident, one of the first questions you need answered is simple: “Does the other driver even have insurance?” It’s not...